Niger

Since the start of May 2019, violence in the northern Nigerian states of Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina have forced over 70,000 people to seek refuge over the border in Niger’s Maradi region, primarily in Guidan Roumdji department. They are fleeing indiscriminate attacks that include sexual violence and abduction, as well as cattle rustling and extortion, by unknown armed groups not connected to the Boko Haram insurgency. ?

The situation is dynamic, with many people returning to their homes over the border. The displaced are primarily living in host communities. Prior to the influx of refugees, Maradi was already prone to disease outbreaks, such as cholera, and food insecurity. Protection concerns are heightened, as armed groups have crossed the border and attacked communities on several occasions. Women and children account for 90% of the registered refugees?

For more information on Northwest banditry in Nigeria, see the crisis page.